What Is Car Key Cutting?

Modern car keys can't be cut at a self-service kiosk located in a mall. They require specialized sidewinder equipment and are specifically designed to match the specific lock cylinders of your vehicle.

Understanding the difference between duplicate car keys and cutting a car key could save you time, money and stress in the near future.

Keys

The cutting process of a car key is used to create a new vehicle key. Professionals are typically the ones who do this because it requires specialized machinery to trace a key's unique shape and ensure it fits into the locks correctly. Additionally, a professional can often provide a guarantee on the work that they do.

In the past, car keys were simple. Modern technology has made them more complicated. A lot of vehicles today use smart keys that come with encryption and other security features to prevent theft. These features are designed to make it more difficult for thieves to replicate or alter the key and also help the owner keep track of who has used their vehicle.

Traditional keys for cars are flat and have a rectangular form. They are smaller than a sidewinder keys and have the same cut on both sides. These keys are able to fit into any lock since they have the exact same cut on both sides. They can be duplicated with standard key machines available in hardware stores.

In the 1990s, laser cut keys were introduced by high-end car manufacturers. The technology was able to be used in various models to deter theft of cars. Laser cut keys have a more robust shank than traditional keys and more grooves that are carved into them. The keys are more expensive to manufacture, but they are also more secure.

In order to cut a laser cut key, a locksmith must first decode the existing key in the shop. The locksmith then adjusts the key-cutting device to match the key's cut and then cuts the blade. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate and is also more difficult to copy. It is imperative that the locksmith has an automated machine of top quality like the Silca Futura Auto or Futura Pro or the Framon 2 machine. These machines also can create keys from existing keys, i.e. they can create new keys using an existing key that has been cut.

Tools

Car key cutting is more than cutting a piece of metal It's an art that ensures security, functionality, and longevity. Properly-cut keys ensure that they will fit into the lock, and will not cause damage to the lock or the ignition. A professional will ensure the key is cut correctly, no matter if it's a mechanical key or transponder or smart key.

To make a brand new key, an existing key is placed on the side of the duplicator and lined up with a specialized cutting tool to serve as an outline for the new key. Then the blank key is placed on the opposite side of the machine. There, it's aligned with a key guide to ensure both keys are in alignment during the duplicate process. The two keys are cut at the same time to create duplicates that match the original key.

When you are choosing a key cutter, look for one that has several jaws that have different ways to grip the key. A two-way cutter is the best for duplicating standard key blades, whereas the 4-way model is ideal for keys that are laser cut. If you are planning to use the machine to duplicate keys from automobiles such as remote heads or transponder keys, ensure that there is enough space between the jaws.

The right tool will help you start your business. A Defu 2A key duplicator, for example, is affordable and has the capability to cut nearly every type of key, with the exception of high security blanks. This model is also suited for mobile use which makes it a great option for someone who is just starting out and wants to start a key cutting business.

It can be expensive to invest in a premium machine for cutting keys, but the investment is worth it since you can cut and create most keys using codes, including transponder and smart keys. It can also be used to clone and program RW4, MBOX and ZBULL chip keys. If you want to program and clone high-security chips however, you'll need an additional device that can communicate with the vehicle's onboard system and read the unique identification number (VIN). Choosing the best equipment for your key cutting business will save you time and cash in the end.

Cutting

The key duplicator is a device that duplicates keys with the same shape as the existing keys. The original key is placed on one side of the machine and aligned to the cutting tool. This serves as a template for the new key. The blank key is then placed on the other side of the machine. A key guide is utilized to keep the two keys in alignment as they are cut, resulting in a perfectly duplicated new key.

Other kinds of keys require specialized machinery. Standard car keys can be made using the use of a key cutter. The majority of newer cars come with proximity key fobs or smart key systems that have to be programmed to start the vehicle. Transponder key cutters are needed to cut these keys. They can trace the contours of the keys and Car Key Blade Cutting program it for the vehicle.

A car key cutter should be able to not only cut different types of keys, but also program them to work with the ignition system. There are a myriad of models of car key cutters on the market each with its own unique set of features. The model you pick depends on the type of key you're cutting and the number of keys you need to copy at once.

If you're looking to learn how to make your own keys using a car key cutter, it can be a valuable tool in your workshop. You must be aware, however, that key cutting equipment comes in a variety of quality. It is essential to purchase the machine by a reputable industrial manufacturer with a long warranty. Also, make sure that the machine can be easily repaired or replaced should it be required.

There are three primary types of key cutting machines The three main types are manual, semi-automatic and automated. Manual machines require you to manually move the keys along the cutter wheel and tracer, they are easy to use, but they require your complete focus. The JMA Nomad or Silca Flash are both good options. Automated machines are computer-driven and will complete all the work for you. All you have to do is give them the information you need to do using the software included with the machine.

Programming

If a key is equipped with transponder, it has to be programmed to the specific car. The process varies among makes and models however, it generally involves inserting a working key into ignition and leaving it in place for a few seconds. Then insert the new key and leave it for a couple of minutes. This allows the computer of the car to recognize this key and start the vehicle. If you have a newer model vehicle, you may also have to program the keyless entry remote. This requires a more intricate and expensive device.

Customers are requesting more car keys duplication machines in retail stores. These machines are easy to operate and are more precise than manual key cutting machines. These machines remove human error and permit accurate and quick key cutting. These machines are ideal for people who have lost their keys or have damaged them.

You can also find car key cutters who specialize in the production of key fobs that can be used as replacements to be compatible with the most recent models of cars. These devices utilize the same technology as the car key duplication machines, but they can produce up 50 copies at once. Some models come with touchscreen displays for more efficient operation. They can also create smart keys that include an electronic transponder that opens doors automatically.

A car key cutter can duplicate both regular keys made of metal as well as transponder keys. Some keys have a remote. A normal key has the same cuts on both sides. A remote head is an amalgamation of a regular key and get a car key cut near me fob that includes buttons for locking and unlocking the car.

Modern vehicles are fitted with an anti-theft system that prevents keys that are not from the manufacturer to be used in the ignition. This system relies on an electronic chip that communicates with the car's computer. The car will not start if the chip is not programmed properly. A qualified auto locksmith can program a brand new car key for you within a few minutes.